Uncommon Learning Spaces: What is the Commons?

In the last month, both major publications of EDUCAUSE have focused on learning spaces: EDUCAUSE Review and EDUCAUSE Quarterly. As we seek more ways to collaborate in these difficult budgetary times, it makes sense for campus units to work more closely together to provide student and faculty support services in shared spaces. When redesigning or building new learning spaces, it makes sense to create comfortable, inviting spaces that allow for maximum flexibility. These dynamic spaces, built largely on partnerships, are often known in libraries as information/learning commons. This is the first in a series of posts I will write about the transition to the commons environment.

While there are numerous textbook definitions of the commons, as well as hairsplitting debates on whether a commons is an information commons or a learning commons, I see three basic elements of the commons:

A collaborative space. The commons is a warm, welcoming space, which facilitates student work and encourages collaboration. Sometimes this is called a third place, basically an ideal gathering place for students that is not in the classroom and not at home. Typically these spaces include comfortable furniture that is easily rearranged for group work.

Well equipped with technology and related services. Computers in soldierly rows with students stacked elbow-to-elbow just don't cut it anymore. Reconfigured lab spaces which include different types of furniture that can easily be rearranged are quickly becoming the norm, especially as students increasingly bring laptops to the space and the future of the computer lab itself is questioned. While the technology is important--particularly the specialized software and hardware that most students would not have otherwise--the key to a successful commons space is knowledgeable, friendly experts that can provide library and IT assistance. Technology in the commons is more than just a glorified computer lab.

A place to have a little fun. While these spaces are usually in libraries, the environment is generally relaxed to encourage students to spend time in the space. The food policy is often more liberal than other areas of the library, as well as the policy on noise. Student influence is often visible in the space with artwork, signs, or other elements of creative activity. Basically it's not your typical library environment.

Next post in the series: I'll discuss the changing support model for libraries and IT.